Home Sweet Home
Part Two

Last month, we discussed radon and carbon monoxide as common indoor air pollutants. This month, we will turn our attention to three more dangerous substances found in most homes – mold and mildew, asbestos and lead. Exposure to any of these agents may not produce any immediate symptoms and, in fact, some health effects may not show up for several years. Thus, it is important to identify and address indoor air pollutants even if you and your family are feeling fine.

Mold and mildew are found in most homes and release disease-causing toxins. Mold and mildew can breed in moist areas in which the relative humidity is greater than 30-50 percent, or there is standing water, water-damaged materials or wet surfaces. When large quantities of mold are present, they can produce allergic symptoms including sneezing, watery eyes, runny nose, coughing, skin irritation, shortness of breath and fatigue. Testing for mold is not recommended because it is very difficult and expensive. If you can see or smell mold or mildew, it needs to be cleaned up. Mold can be removed from hard surfaces with commercial products, soap and water, or a bleach solution. Mold concentrations can be lowered simply by minimizing moisture in your house. Install and use exhaust fans that are vented to the outdoors in kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. Ventilate the attic, crawl spaces, and basement to keep humidity levels less than 50 percent. Empty water trays in air conditioners, dehumidifiers, and refrigerators frequently. If carpets or other building materials become water-damaged, thoroughly clean and dry them as soon as possible and consider replacing them.

Lead is a highly toxic metal that is particularly dangerous to children but can cause negative health effects in adults as well. The most significant source of lead exposure is old lead-based paint, which was used in many houses built before 1978. Lead is also commonly present in contaminated dust and soil and water that has passed through lead pipes. High blood levels of lead can cause convulsions, coma and death. Lower levels can lead to fatigue, abdominal pain, irritability, headaches, and muscle and joint pains. Children exposed to even low levels of lead can experience delays in physical and mental development. To minimize your exposure to lead, leave lead-based paint undisturbed if it is in good condition. If the paint is peeling or flaking, mop the floors and wipe peeling paint with a solution of powdered automatic dishwasher detergent in warm water. Do not attempt to remove lead-based paint yourself but hire a contractor with special training. Keep areas where children play as dust-free and clean as possible. Consider testing your water for lead by contacting your local health department for information.

Asbestos is a mineral fiber that has been commonly used in building materials, particularly as insulation and as a fire-retardant. It is found in older homes, insulation materials, textured paints and floor tiles. Exposure to asbestos can lead to lung cancer, mesothelioma (a rare form of cancer), asbestosis (a dangerous form of lung scarring) and several other forms of cancer. Some of these health risks are particularly elevated in people who also smoke. It can take 10 to 40 years for asbestos-related illness to show symptoms. High air concentrations of asbestos can be caused by disturbing asbestos-containing materials by cutting, sanding or other remodeling activities. If you have asbestos-containing materials in your home, do not cut, sand or rip them but leave them alone. Material, which is, intact and in good condition will not release asbestos fiber.

Dr. McMahon, a graduate of Yale University and the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, is board certified in Internal Medicine. She is a member of the American College of Physicians and the Allegheny County and Pennsylvania Medical Societies. She is in solo practice in the North Hills of Pittsburgh.Danger occurs when fibers are released and inhaled into the lungs. If you need to remove these materials, use a professionally trained contractor.